James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his contribution and the fact that Ericsson is fully committed to Athlone and to Ireland generally. This is most welcome. I ask the Minister of State to remember, however, that there are many people in my constituency who suffer from severe depression because they are unable to find jobs. The midlands has probably the highest rate of unemployment to be found in the country at present.

The Minister of State mentioned that the midlands region, including County Westmeath, has the linked gateway of Athlone, Tullamore and Mullingar, but there is no reference to Longford. There is a need to revisit the national spatial strategy that was announced some years ago because it is out of date. Longford and other midland towns are not getting a fair crack of the whip. The Minister of State should consider this matter.

A task force should be set up next year to examine all aspects of employment and the jobs profile of the midlands in order to realise the potential of this gateway, including Longford, to all parts of the country. It has the potential to be a vibrant economic centre. We must at all times be conscious that we have lost two Government Deputies in the midlands. This is indicative of the outrage and despair that the withdrawal of services is causing to the region. The heart is being ripped out of the midland counties. We must acknowledge that this is happening and take action to remedy it. This situation cannot continue. I want to see action with the establishment of a task force to co-ordinate all agencies in order to bring jobs to the midlands, and particularly to my constituency of Longford-Westmeath. I am sure the Minister of State will take note of that and bring my concerns for the midlands to the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Richard Bruton.

I have spoken to him on numerous occasions about this and the time for talking is long over. I want action and want to see it quickly.

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